MARINE
SECTOR
IN CANADA
Arctic Region
St. Lawrence River and Gulf Region
Atlantic Region
Great Lakes-Seaway Region
Pacific Region
Over the next 10 years, 43% of the marine workforce is expected to retire.
The Canadian marine sector will need to hire 19,000 seafarers to keep up with industry demand. There will also be a wide variety of opportunities in ports, shipyards and other shore-based operations.
The Canadian marine sector will need to hire 19,000 seafarers to keep up with industry demand. There will also be a wide variety of opportunities in ports, shipyards and other shore-based operations.
Embarking on a career journey in the marine transportation sector may not be something you’ve thought much about (or at all!). That’s ok! That’s why we’re here. It turns out that while many young people have a positive impression of marine and believe it offers interesting and fulfilling work, 40% ‘have never heard anything’ about its wide variety of careers.
Canadian marine career opportunities are as diverse and unique as you. Whether you are interested in marine navigation, engineering, the environment, technology, security, logistics, professional services, tourism or the trades – there's a place for you.
CAREER PROGRESSION
You can expect plenty of job security and career growth potential when you join the marine sector. Whether you start your career on ship or on shore – marine expertise is in hot demand! Salaries and benefits for both young professionals and secondary career seekers are very competitive and far beyond the national Canadian average salary.
The average salary in Canadian shipyards is 30% higher than the manufacturing average
Did you know?
ENVIRONMENTAL
SUSTAINABILITY
SUSTAINABILITY
Did you know that marine shipping is already Canada’s greenest mode of transport? In just 10 years, domestic ship operators have already reduced C02 emissions by 19%. Marine organizations from vessel operators, ports, and the Seaway to terminals and shipyards go above and beyond standard regulations through voluntary certification programs like Green Marine. Join marine and become a part of the green wave!
Did you know?
A single ship carries the same amount of cargo as 301 rail cars, or 963 trucks.
WORK/LIFE BALANCE
Marine careers can range from standard office hours, to shift work in a 24/7 operation to working aboard a vessel for weeks at a time and then having an extended period of time off to focus on family and personal interests. Maritime work can be an option for anyone pursuing job flexibility. If you think you know what the inside of a ship looks like in 2022, you may be in for a surprise!
Young people rank lifestyle the 3rd most important factor when choosing a career.
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ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY
The marine industry is an ideal choice if you’re considering a career in STEM or STEAM, and many post-secondary institutions have developed programs for ocean and maritime-specific technologies. Cutting-edge technology, data, and engineering are more important than ever as the industry works to meet its decarbonization targets and develop lasting climate solutions. Kickstart your STEM journey alongside industry experts, mentors, and thought leaders!
Marine technology contributes to improved ship performance, Smart ships, electric shore power, and underwater radiated noise (URN) pollution reduction for wildlife.
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ADVENTURE
Working on the water has long been synonymous with a life of adventure, and for good reason! Seafaring careers offer so many one-of-a-kind experiences, like traveling Canada's breathtaking coasts, rivers, Arctic regions, and majestic Great Lakes. You might be surprised by how exciting and alluring life at sea can be and the stories and life lessons it will teach you. Many seafarers report that seeing stars at night over the water is an unforgettable feeling unlike any other.
Did you know?
Many seafarers say that seeing stars at night over the water is an unforgettable feeling unlike any other.
FULFILLING WORK
We get it. Nobody wants a boring job. When you join marine, you can expect to finish each day feeling rewarded and accomplished. The multi-faceted nature of a marine career will keep you engaged and challenged through the wide range of roles available both at shore and sea. The opportunity to make a difference is everywhere, whether you're bringing crucial supplies to those in need, promoting safer water traffic, or forging stronger partnerships with Indigenous and coastal communities.
The Canadian Coast Guard employs 4,554 personnel on land and sea, all of whom contribute to the safety, accessibility and security of Canadian waters.
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Imagine Marine, a CMCF Initiative. © 2023, Canadian Marine Careers Foundation, all rights reserved.
